Inside the Luxury World of Dog Wellness — as Experienced by One Very Lucky Golden Retriever

Los Angeles has taken dog wellness to luxurious heights, mirroring human self-care trends with services like reiki, massages, facials, underwater treadmills, and sound baths. In a weeklong journey through L.A.’s elite dog wellness scene, Dug, an 8-year-old golden retriever, experienced high-end treatments ranging from a blueberry facial at a celebrity-frequented spa to aqua fitness sessions and Reiki meditation by the ocean.

These services highlight a growing cultural shift where dogs are treated like family—or even children—reflecting their owners’ lifestyles. Wellness centers focus not only on pampering but also on preventative care and mental well-being. However, veterinarians caution owners against projecting human preferences onto pets, reminding them to consult professionals. The experience culminated in Dug joining an exclusive dog social club, where community and canine connection are key. Through his indulgent week, Dug exemplifies how the line between human and pet wellness is increasingly blurred in L.A.’s thriving pet culture.